The repatriation of Afghan refugees from Balochistan — particularly the provincial capital Quetta — has gained pace as authorities continue the third phase of the return plan.
Deputy Commissioner Quetta, Mehrullah Badini, confirmed that over 35,000 Afghan nationals have so far returned to Afghanistan from Quetta district. He said the process is progressing in a phased and organized manner under federal directives, prioritizing humanitarian considerations and legal obligations.
Badini added that the number of departures is expected to rise further in the coming days, with district administrations fully mobilized to support returning families. Facilitation centers have been set up at border points to assist with documentation and logistics.
Officials say dozens of illegal settlements have been cleared during recent operations. Many Afghan families are selling their homes and small businesses as they prepare to leave.
Local community representatives have welcomed the repatriation effort, calling it a step toward strengthening security and protecting national interests. Authorities stress that efforts are focused on ensuring a smooth and dignified return for Afghan citizens.
Meanwhile, 10 refugee camps across Balochistan have been closed — including one in Quetta, two in Pishin, three in Loralai, three in Chagai, and one in Killa Saifullah. These camps had hosted Afghan refugees for decades amid conflict in the region.
The Commissionerate for Afghan Refugees stated that nearly 500,000 Afghan nationals were officially registered in Balochistan. Overall, official figures show that over 1.4 million Afghan refugees have returned so far, including 163,000 Proof of Registration (PoR) holders and 80,000 Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders.
Officials describe the ongoing initiative as an “honourable and organized return” for Afghan citizens, marking the final phase of Pakistan’s decades-long hosting of Afghan refugees while ensuring a safe, lawful, and dignified repatriation process.
